Getting Around Costa Rica

There are many options for getting around Costa Rica: rental cars, public buses, domestic flights, shuttles, private vans, ferries, train, helicopters, limousines, quad rentals and even in some cases, horseback!

Before deciding, take into account on travel routes and budget. In any case, each is an opportunity to take in Costa Rica’s remarkable scenery.

Public bus

Public bus transportation in Costa Rica is abundant in most popular areas, it is frequent and cheap. Buses can get pretty crowded sometimes, reserve your seat when possible or arrive early at the station or you might find yourself standing up and holding on to a rail, but this doesn’t really matter for short rides. Keep in mind that when traveling outside the city, buses are more crowded from Friday to Monday, since a lot of people commute during the weekend. Also, luggage space is limited in most buses, and they don’t have bathrooms.

Rent-a-car

There are many companies to choose from the moment you arrive at the airport; you will also find companies in the cities and in more frequented rural areas. Because Costa Rica’s roads are famous for their potholes in main streets and cities, many cars are four wheel drives; if you are headed to any coastal area, you may encounter many dirt roads the moment you turn off any main street.

Taxis

Like buses, offer excellent service and they are much cheaper than in other countries. All official taxis in the cities have a meter, which you must make sure is turned on when you enter the cab. Taxis charge more if they leave the city, so you must make sure to ask about an approximate amount before beginning the ride.

Domestic Flights

There exists a few local airlines that offer flights to over 15 locations that are comfortably priced. The main companies are called Sansa Regional which is located next to the Juan Santamaria International Airport, the other is called Nature Air and is located in Pavas, in the Tobias Bolanos Airport.

Train

The service is limited to the San Jose area.

Ferry

A scenic view of the Gulf of Nicoya will accompany travelers on their way to the Nicoya Peninsula, and always an option if you’re heading towards certain areas in Guanacaste. The Ferry leaves from Puntarenas a few times a day and Arrives either in Paquera or Naranjo. Schedules change depending on the season.

Shuttle Service

A shared transportation option in an air-conditioned minibus (or coaster) between popular destinations. They are subject to availability and must be reserved in advance.

Private Service

whether it be a minibus, passenger van, limousine, helicopter or airplane, private transportation offers a safe and convenient way to travel anywhere within Costa. Schedule anytime you wish from any airport, hotel, private home or identifiable landmark in Costa Rica. All the vehicles used for private transportation are well-maintained by reliable and punctual Costa Rican professionals who are eager to help you and/or your group move comfortably around the country.

Driving age is eighteen and over, however, if you are a foreigner, you must be twenty one. In any case, you must always carry your passport and a tourist’s driver’s license is only valid for a period of three months after arrival. Be psychologically prepared for reckless or rude drivers, unexpected potholes, sharp curves when in mountainous regions.

In many cases, traveling between destinations can be an experience, rather than just a means to get from place to place. Once you know what destinations you plan on visiting, scenic adventure opportunities will compliment your travel routes.